Sightseeing in San Jose, California - Silicon Valley's Capital

San Jose, California, is the 10th largest city in the United States. It is also known as the capital of Silicon Valley. The city has plenty of history, charm and many worthwhile attractions. Yet, it gets neglected in the shadows of its more famous neighbor, San Francisco. However, if you happen to be here with some time to spare, rest assured there is plenty you can do, some usual and some unusual.

Some of these places can be conveniently reached by walk (if you are staying downtown) or by VTA Light Rail or bus. For some others, you will need a car.

1. Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose
180 Woz Way, San Jose, CA 95110. 408-298-5437. www.cdm.org

The Children's Discovery Museum is a wonderful place where you and your children can spend a day (or more) exploring and discovering art, science and the way things work, through 150 interactive exhibits, among other art and craft activities. Bring a bag lunch if you would like to picnic on the rolling lawns adjacent to the museum.

The Children's Discovery Museum is conveniently situated downtown and is accessible by VTA Light Rail. Get off at the Children's Discovery Museum stop.

2. The Tech Museum of Innovation
201 South Market St., San Jose, CA 95113. (408) 294-8324. www.thetech.org

If you have older kids who won't appreciate making dolls out of cornhusk or Japanese paper dolls, you can visit the Tech Museum of Innovation. Some of the latest exhibits include Green by Design, a hands-on exhibit that demonstrates the power of renewable energy; and Silicon Workshop where you can design your own products or program devices to do different activities. For a complete list of the 250 exhibits, and ongoing events, visit the museum website at www.thetech.org.

The cost of admission includes one IMAX screening as well as the museum exhibits.

The Tech Museum of Innovation is accessible from the VTA Light Rail. Get off at San Jose McEnery Convention Center stop and head 1 block north on Market Street to Park Avenue.

3. The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum & Planetarium
1342 Naglee Ave., San Jose, CA 95191. (408) 947-3636. www.egyptianmuseum.org